Dubai: The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced the official working hours for public sector employees in the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan.

According to the circular issued by FAHR, ministries and federal authorities will operate from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, and from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays. Employees will work 3.5 hours less from Monday to Thursday and 1.5 hours less on Friday compared to regular working hours.

FAHR also stated that federal entities have the flexibility to implement remote work or flexible working arrangements based on operational needs. In line with approved regulations, up to 70% of government employees will be allowed to work remotely on Fridays during Ramadan.

The announcement comes as the UAE prepares for the holy month, which is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, based on the Hijri calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). The UAE’s International Astronomy Centre (IAC) has confirmed that the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan is likely to be visible on the evening of February 28, 2025.

Islamic months follow the lunar calendar and last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. Official moon-sighting committees will convene on the 29th day of Shaban (February 28) to confirm the exact start date of Ramadan.